Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and
a silicone rubber, a method for manufacturing the integrally molded body, and a curable
silicone composition for manufacturing the body. More specifically, the present invention
relates to an integrally molded body and method of manufacturing the integrally molded
body composed of a cured body of a hydrosilation-curable silicone resin composition,
and a cured body of a hydrosilation-curable or peroxide-curable silicone rubber composition,
where the cured body of the silicone resin composition and the cured body of the silicone
rubber composition are firmly bonded to each other via adhesion. The present invention
also relates to a hydrosilation-curable silicone resin composition used for manufacturing
this integrally molded body.
Background of the Invention
[0002] US Patent 5,645,941 (July 8, 1997) discloses a composite body of a firmly adhesively bonded silicone resin and a silicone
rubber, for use in the manufacture of parts for electric devices, electronic devices,
office-automation devices, precision instruments, and vehicles. British Patent
227 9616 (January 11,1995) discloses a hard key-top push button switch made from a silicone rubber coated with
a hard silicone resin coating film. However, molding of a silicone rubber and a silicone
resin into an integral body, where the silicone rubber and silicone resin are firmly
bonded via adhesion, remains a problem.
Summary of the Invention
[0003] It is an object of the present invention is to provide an integral body composed
of a firmly adhesively bonded silicone resin and silicone rubber, a reliable method
for manufacturing such a body, and a hydrosilation-curable silicone composition for
manufacturing such a body.
[0004] The present invention relates to:
[1] an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone rubber comprising:
a cured body of (A) a curable silicone resin composition comprising:
100 parts by weight of (A1) an organopolysiloxane resin that contains at least two
silicon-bonded alkenyl groups, and not less than 30 mole percent of total siloxane
units of RSiO3/2 units where R is a univalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms,
(A2) an organopolysiloxane having a molecular structure between branched and resinous
that contains silicon-bonded phenyl groups and at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen
atoms wherein (A2) is present
in an amount such that the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
of (A2) to the mole number of alkenyl groups in (A1) is within the range of 0.4 to
0.98, and (A3) a platinum group metal catalyst in an amount sufficient for cross-linking
and curing (A1) and (A2), and
a cured body of (B) a silicone rubber composition comprising:
100 parts by weight of (B1) a diorganopolysiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded
alkenyl groups,
(B2) an organopolysiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
in an amount such that the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
of (B2) to the mole number of alkenyl groups in (B1) is within the range of 1.0 to
20.0, and (B3) a platinum group metal catalyst or an organic peroxide in an amount
sufficient for cross-linking and curing (B1) and (B2).
[2] An integrally molded body of a silicone resin and a silicone rubber comprising:
a cured body of (A) a curable silicone resin composition comprising:
100 parts by weight of (A1) an organopolysiloxane resin that contains at least two
silicon-bonded alkenyl groups, and not less than 30 mole percent of total siloxane
units of RSiO3/2 units where R is a univalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms,
(A4) a non-silicone-type organic compound that contains at least two alkenyl groups,
having a molecular weight not less than 150, and an index of refraction within the
range of 1.45 to 1.56 measured at 25 °C in an amount of 2 to 40 parts by weight per
100 parts by weight of (A1),
(A2) an organopolysiloxane having a molecular structure between branched and resinous
that contains silicon-bonded phenyl groups and at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen
atoms wherein (A2) is present
in an amount such that the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
of (A2) to the mole number of alkenyl groups in (A1) and (A4) is within the range
of 0.4 to 0.98, and
(A3) a platinum group metal catalyst in an amount sufficient for cross-linking and
curing (A1), (A2) and (A4), and
a cured body of (B) a silicone rubber composition comprising:
100 parts by weight of (B1) a diorganopolysiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded
alkenyl groups,
(B2) an organopolysiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
in an amount such that the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
of (B2) to the mole number of alkenyl groups in (B1) is within the range of 1.0 to
20.0, and
(B3) a platinum group metal catalyst or an organic peroxide in an amount sufficient
for cross-linking and curing (B1) and (B2).
[3] The integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone rubber according to
[1] wherein the hardness of the cured body of a curable silicone resin composition
(A) which is measured with a Type D durometer according to Japanese Industrial Standard
K 7215 is within the range of 50 to 90.
[4] The integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone rubber according to
[2] wherein the hardness of the cured body of a curable silicone resin composition
(A) which is measured with a Type D durometer according to Japanese Industrial Standard
K 7215 is within the range of 50 to 90.
[5] A method for manufacturing an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone
rubber according to [1] comprising the steps of loading a curable silicone resin composition
(A) and a silicone rubber composition (B) into the same mold, and simultaneously curing
and molding (A) and (B).
[6] A method for manufacturing an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone
rubber according to [2] comprising the steps of loading a curable silicone resin composition
(A) and a silicone rubber composition (B) into the same mold, and simultaneously curing
and molding (A) and (B).
[7] A method for manufacturing an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone
rubber according to [1] comprising the steps of loading a curable silicone resin composition
(A) into a mold, and curing and molding the silicone resin; and then loading a silicone
rubber composition (B) into the same mold, and curing and molding the silicone rubber
composition in the same mold.
[8] A method for manufacturing an integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone
rubber according to [2] comprising the steps of loading (A) a curable silicone resin
composition into a mold, and curing and molding the silicone resin; and then loading
(B) a silicone rubber composition into the same mold, and curing and molding the silicone
rubber composition in the same mold.
[9] The method according to [7] wherein the hardness of the cured body of (A) a curable
silicone resin composition cured and molded in the mold which is measured with a Type
D durometer according to Japanese Industrial Standard K 7215 is within the range of
50 to 90.
[10] The method according to [8] wherein the hardness of the cured body of (A) a curable
silicone resin composition cured and molded in the mold which is measured with a Type
D durometer according to Japanese Industrial Standard K 7215 is within the range of
50 to 90.
[11] A curable silicone resin composition comprising:
(A1a) a polyalkylalkenylsiloxane resin that contains at least two silicon-bonded alkenyl
groups and not less than 30 mole percent of total siloxane units of R1SiO3/2 units where R1 is an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms,
(A4a) a hydrocarbon compound that contains at least three alkenyl groups, having a
molecular weight not less than 150, and an index of refraction within the range of
1.45 to 1.56 at 25 °C,
the total amount of components (A1a) and (A4a) in the composition being 100 parts
by weight, and where component (A4a) is used in an amount of 2 to 40 parts by weight
per 100 parts of component (A1a),
(A2) an organopolysiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
in an amount such that the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms
of component (A2), to the total mole number of alkenyl groups in components (A1a)
and (A4a), is within the range of 0.1 to 1.0, and
(A3) a platinum group metal catalyst in an amount sufficient for cross-linking and
curing (A1a), (A2), and (A4a).
[0005] The integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone rubber is characterized
by strong adhesion between the silicone resin and silicone rubber. The method for
manufacturing the body integrally molded from a silicone resin and a silicone rubber,
provides stability in manufacturing the body, while the silicone resin composition
provides the cured resin with high hardness. These and other features of the invention
will become apparent from a consideration of the detailed description.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0006] The curable silicone resin composition (A) used for manufacturing the integrally
molded body of the present invention cures via hydrosilation reaction between silicon-bonded
alkenyl groups of a component (A1) and silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of a component
(A2), under the catalytic action of a component (A3).
[0007] Organopolysiloxane resin (A1) contains in its molecule at least two silicon-bonded
alkenyl groups, and no less than 30 mole percent of total siloxane units of units
represented by RSiO
3/2, where R is a univalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms. It is one of
the main components of the curable silicone resin composition. The silicon-bonded
alkenyl groups of (A1) may have less than 12 carbon atoms, and may be represented
by vinyl, allyl, butenyl, pentenyl, hexenyl, heptenyl, octenyl, nonenyl, decenyl,
undecenyl, and dodecenyl groups. Most preferred are vinyl, butenyl, and hexenyl groups.
At least two, and preferably more than three such alkenyl groups may coexist in the
molecule. The alkenyl groups present in the molecule may be the same or different
type. RSiO
3/2 units should exceed 30 mole percent, preferably 50 mole percent of the total amount
of siloxane units where R designates a univalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 6 carbon
atoms. R group is exemplified by methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, or other alkyl groups,
and a phenyl group. The propyl and phenyl groups are preferred. The organopolysiloxane
resin may have a weight-average molecular weight within the range of 200 to 80,000,
preferably between 300 to 20,000. Component (A1) contained in the curable silicone
resin composition (A) may be a organopolysiloxane resin of one type, or a mixture
of organopolysiloxane resins of two or more types. At 25 °C, the organopolysiloxane
resin may be a liquid or a solid. The liquid form is preferred for molding.
[0008] Component (A1) may be a organopolysiloxane resin represented by the following average
molecular formulae, where Me designates a methyl group, Ph designates a phenyl group,
Vi designates a vinyl group, and Hex designates a hexenyl group:
(PhSiO
3/2)
30 [ViMe
2 SiO
1/2]
10
(PhSiO
3/2)
7 (Me
2 SiO
2/2)
0.6 [HexMeSiO
2/2]
2
(PhSiO
3/2)
15 (ViMe SiO
2/2)
5
(PhSiO
3/2)
70 (Me
2 SiO
2/2)
10 [HexMeSiO
2/2]
20
(C
3H
7SiO
3/2)
13 (ViMe
2 SiO
1/2)
2
[0009] Component (A1) can be produced by co-hydrolyzing corresponding at least one organochlorosilanes
or organoalkoxysilanes, heating the hydrolysis product in the presence of a minute
quantity of a potassium catalyst, subjecting the residual silanol and alkoxy groups
to condensation, and then neutralizing the product with an acid.
[0010] Component (A2) is the cross-linking agent for component (A1). Silicon-bonded hydrogen
atoms of (A2) participate in the hydrosilation reaction with the alkenyl groups of
component (A1). Component (A2) should contain in its molecule at least two, and preferably
at least three silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms. The silicon-bonded organic groups present
in Component (A2) may be represented by methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, other alkyl,
or phenyl groups. Methyl and phenyl groups are preferred. Component (A2) may have
a weight-average molecular weight within the range of 100 to 20,000, preferably between
200 to 7,000. For better miscibility with component (A1), it is preferred that at
room temperature, component (A2) is a liquid. From the point of view of hardness of
a cured body obtained from curable silicone resin composition (A) (A2) has a molecular
structure between being branched and resinous. Component (A2) used in a curable silicone
resin composition (A) may be of one type or it may be comprised of a mixture of two
or more types.
[0011] Component (A2) can be represented by the following average molecular formulae:
(Me
2HSiO
1/2)
6 (PhSiO
3/2)
4
(Me
2HSiO
1/2)
5 (PhSiO
3/2)
5
(Me
2HSiO
1/2)
4 (PhSiO
3/2)
6
(Me
2HSiO
1/2)
4 (MePhSiO
2/2)
2 (SiO
4/2)
2 and
(Me
2HSiO
1/2)
6 (MePhSiO
2/2)
2 (SiO
4/2)
2
[0012] Component (A2) can be produced by hydrolyzing corresponding at least one organochlorosilanes
or organoalkoxysilanes in the presence of an acidic catalyst, subjecting the silanol
groups or alkoxy groups to partial condensation by heating, subjecting the obtained
product of partial condensation to an equilibrium reaction with 1,1,3,3-tetramethyl-1,3-disiloxane,
and then neutralizing the product. Alternatively, component (A2) can be produced in
a process where, instead of hydrolyzing the organoalkoxysilane alone, the organoalkoxysilane
and tetraalkoxysilane are co-hydrolyzed in the presence of an acidic catalyst
[0013] Component (A2) is used in such an amount that the ratio of the mole number of the
silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of component (A2), to the mole number of alkenyl groups
in component (A1), is within the range of 0.40 to 0.98. If the amount of component
(A2) is below 0.1, the silicone resin composition (A) will be insufficiently cured.
If component (A2) is used in an amount exceeding 1.0, this will impair adhesion of
a cured body of a curable silicone resin composition to a cured body of a silicone
rubber composition (B).
[0014] Component (A3) is the catalyst that promotes the hydrosilation reaction between the
alkenyl groups of component (A1) and the silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of component
(A2), i.e., component (A3) promotes a cross-linking reaction between components (A1)
and (A2), and hence, it provides for curing of the curable resin composition (A).
Component (A3) can be a platinum group metal such as ruthenium, rhodium, palladium,
osmium, iridium, or platinum per se, or compounds of these metals that possess a catalytic
activity with regard to a hydrosilation reaction between alkenyl groups and silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms. Preferred for component (A3) are platinum type catalysts, such as
platinum black, platinum on a fine-powdered carbon black carrier, platinum on a fine-powdered
silica carrier, chloroplatinic acid, an alcohol solution of a chloroplatinic acid,
a platinum-olefin complex, a divinyl-tetramethyldisiloxane complex of a chloroplatinic
acid, a divinyl-tetramethyldisiloxane complex of platinum, and thermoplastic resin
powders that contain platinum-group metals. Component (A3) should be used in a catalytic
amount, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 1,000 ppm of the pure metal contained in
component (A3), per total amount of component (A1). If used in an amount of less than
0.1 ppm, curing is delayed. Use of the catalyst in an amount exceeding 1,000 ppm will
not noticeably improve curability, and is economically unjustifiable.
[0015] A non-silicone-type organic compound (A4) that contains in its molecule at least
two alkenyl groups can also be used. Component (A4) should have a molecular weight
not less than 150, and an index of refraction within the range of 1.45 to 1.56 at
25 °C. Component (A4) improves the hardness and the bending strength of a cured body
obtained by curing a curable silicone resin composition (A). If the index of refraction
of component (A4) is beyond the range of 1.45 to 1.56 at 25 °C, this impairs the miscibility
of component (A4) with components (A1) and (A2). If component (A4) has a molecular
weight below 150, it will have too high a volatility. When curing of the curable silicone
resin composition (A) is carried out by heating, for example, this will change the
ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of component (A2) to the
total mole number of alkenyl groups in components (A1) and (A4), and it will produce
a strong odor.
[0016] Component (A4) is exemplified by 1,3-di(isopropenyl)benzene, triallyl-1,2,4-benzenetricarboxylate,
triallyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-(
1H, 3H, 5H)-trione, 1,2,4-trivinylcyclohexane, 1,3,5-trivinylchlorohexane, and trivinylbenzene.
[0017] In order to increase the cross-linking density, it is preferred to have in one molecule
three alkenyl groups. If component (A1) is a polyalkylalkenylsiloxane resin, the cured
body can not be produced with high hardness. However, hardness of the cured body can
be improved by adding component (A4). Component (A4) should be used in an amount of
2 to 40 parts by weight, preferably 2 to 30 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight
of component (A1). If it is used in an amount of less than 2 parts by weight, the
cured body obtained by curing a silicone resin composition (A) will have insufficient
hardness and bending strength. If the amount of component (A4) exceeds 40 parts by
weight, this will reduce the thermal resistance of the cured body.
[0018] If a curable silicone resin composition (A) contains component (A4), it is required
that component (A2) be used in an amount that provides a ratio of the mole number
of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of component (A2), to the total mole number of alkenyl
groups in components (A1) and (A4), within the range of 0.4 to 0.98.
[0019] Components (A1) to (A3) are necessary components of a curable silicone resin composition
(A). However, in order to improve the storage stability and handling of composition
(A) in processes, composition (A) may also incorporate a hydrosilation reaction inhibitor
(A5). Component (A5) can be a compound such as 3-methyl-1-butyn-3-ol; 3,5-dimethyl-1-hexyn-3-ol;
2-phenyl-3-butyn-2-ol; or similar alkyne alcohol; 3-methyl-3-pentene-1-yne; 3,5-dimethyl-3-hexene-1-yne;
or other acetylenic hydrocarbons; or other ethylenic hydrocarbons; 1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7-tetrahexenyl
cyclotetrasiloxane; 1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7-tetrahexanyl cyclotetrasiloxane; or
benzotriazole. Component (A5) should be used in an amount that inhibits curing of
composition (A) at room temperature, but that allows curing with heating. It is preferred
to add component (A5) in an amount of 0.0001. to 10 parts by weight, preferably 0.001
to 5 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of the sum of components (A1) and (A2),
or per 100 parts by weight of the sum of components (A1), (A2), and (A4).
[0020] To improve the adhesive properties of the silicone rubber, the curable silicone resin
composition (A) may be combined with an adhesion improver (A6). (A6) is exemplified
by silane coupling agents such as 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-acryloxypropyl
trimethoxysilane, or similar organoalkoxysilanes that contains an acryloxy group;
3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-(2-aminoethyl)-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane, or similar
organoalkoxysilanes that contains an amino group; 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane,
similar organoalkoxysilanes that contains an epoxy group, or condensation-reaction
products such as a condensation reaction product between 3-glycidoxypropyltrialkoxysilane
and a silanol-endcapped dimethyloligosiloxane, a condensation reaction product between
3-glycidoxypropyltrialkoxysilane and a silanol-endcapped methylvinyloligosiloxane,
and a product of a condensation reaction between 3-glycidoxypropyltrialkoxysilane
and a silanol-endcapped dimethylsiloxane-methylvinylsiloxane copolymer. Component
(A6) can be used in an amount of 0.1 to 10 parts by weight, preferably 0.1 to 5 parts
by weight, per 100 parts by weight of the sum of components (A1) and (A2), or per
100 parts by weight of the sum of components (A1), (A2), and (A4).
[0021] The curable silicone resin composition (A) may further contain iron oxide, ferrocene,
cerium oxide, cerium polysiloxane, or other heat-resistant agents and pigments. For
improving the mechanical properties of the cured product, the composition (A) may
contain an inorganic filler such as fumed silica, precipitated silica, titanium dioxide,
carbon black, alumina, quartz powder, or such inorganic fillers that have been subjected
to a hydrophobic surface treatment with an organoalkoxysilane, organochlorosilane,
organosilazane, or other organic silicon compound. When it is required that the cured
body be transparent, the inorganic fillers should be added in amounts that do not
inhibit transparency. Other optional additives that may be included are tetramethoxysilane,
tetraethoxysilane, dimethyldimethoxysilane, methylphenyldimethoxysilane, methylphenyldiethoxysiolane,
phenyltrimethoxysilane, methyltrimethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane,
allyltrimethoxysilane, allyltriethoxysilane, or other alkoxysilanes.
[0022] Curable silicone resin composition (A) is prepared by uniformly mixing components
(A1) to (A3), or components (A1) to (A4), if necessary, with addition of other optional
components. Composition (A) can be prepared with a mixer such as a Ross mixer, planetary
mixer, or Hobart mixer.
[0023] If the curable silicone resin composition (A) does not contain a hydrosilation-reaction
inhibitor (A5), curing can be carried out by maintaining it at room temperature. In
the event composition (A) contains a hydrosilation-reaction inhibitor (A5), curing
can be accelerated by heating. There are no limitations with regard to a curing temperature.
For example, curing can be carried out at a temperature within the range of 30 to
350 °C, preferably from 100 to 200 °C. The hardness of the cured body measured with
a Type D durometer according to Japanese Industrial Standard K 7215, should be within
the range of 50 to 90, preferably 65 to 80.
[0024] The silicone rubber composition (B) used herein cures via a hydrosilation reaction
between the silicon-bonded alkenyl groups of component (B1) and the silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms of component (B2), by the catalytic action of component (B3). Component
(B1) is a polydiorganosiloxane with at least two silicon-bonded alkenyl groups in
its molecule and is one of the main constituents of the silicone rubber composition
(B).
[0025] Component (B 1) has a substantially linear molecular structure, but a partially branched
molecular structure can be tolerated to some extent. Silicon-bonded alkenyl groups
of component (B) can be represented by vinyl, allyl, butenyl, and hexenyl groups.
There are no limitations with regard to the position of the alkenyl groups, and they
may be located at the molecular terminals, in side chains, or in both locations. The
location at the molecular terminals is preferable, since the silicone rubber obtained
has superior mechanical properties. In addition to alkenyl groups, component (B1)
may contain other silicon-bonded organic groups such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl,
octyl, and other alkyl groups; phenyl, tolyl, and other aryl groups; univalent saturated
hydrocarbon groups such as phenethyl group, 3-chloropropyl group, 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl
group, and other halogenated alkyl groups. There are no limitations with regard to
the viscosity of component (B1), and the viscosity at 25 °C may be within the range
of 10 to 1,000,000 mPa·s, preferably between 100 to 200,000 mPa·s.
[0026] Component (B1) can be represented by a polydimethylsiloxane capped at both molecular
terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, a methylvinylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, a methylvinylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, a methylvinylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, a methyl
(3,3,3-trifluoropropyl) siloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer capped at both molecular
terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, a polydimethylsiloxane capped at both molecular
terminals with dimethylhexenylsiloxy groups, a methylhexenylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, a methylhexenylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylhexenylsiloxy groups, a
methylphenylsiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer capped at both molecular terminals
with dimethylhexenylsiloxy groups, and a methyl (3,3,3-trifluoropropyl) siloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylhexenylsiloxy groups.
[0027] Component (B2) is a polyorganosiloxane that contains at least two silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms in its molecule. (B2) is the agent that cures component (B1). There
are no limitations with regard to the molecular structure of component (B2), and so
it may have a linear, partially-branched, cyclic, or resinous structure. The silicon-bonded
organic groups of component (B2) can be represented by methyl, ethyl, propyl, and
other alkyl groups; phenyl, tolyl, and other aryl groups; phenethyl or other univalent
hydrocarbon groups represented by aralkyl groups; 3-chloropropyl group, 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl
group, and other halogenated alkyl groups. There are no limitations with regard to
the viscosity of component (B2), and the viscosity at 25 °C may be within the range
of 1 to 10,000 mPa·s. When component (B1) is a polydiorganosiloxane having two alkenyl
groups in its molecule, it is preferred that component (B2) have three or more silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms. When component (B1) is a polydiorganosiloxane with three or more alkenyl
groups in its molecule, component (B2) may be a polyorganosiloxane that contains only
two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms in its molecule.
[0028] Component (B2) can be exemplified by a polymethylhydrogensiloxane capped at both
molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, a methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane
copolymer capped at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, a cyclic
methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer capped at both molecular terminals
with dimethylhydrogensiloxy groups, a methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer,
cyclic polymethylhydrogensiloxane, an organosiloxane copolymer consisting of siloxane
units R
3SiO
1/2, siloxane units R
2HSiO
1/2, and siloxane units SiO
4/2, an organosiloxane copolymer consisting of siloxane units R
2HSiO
1l2 and siloxane units SiO
4/2, an organosiloxane copolymer consisting of siloxane units of formula RHSiO
2/2 and siloxane units of formula RSiO
3/2 or siloxane units of formula HSiO
3/2, or a mixture of two or more of these polyorganosiloxanes. R designates a univalent
saturated hydrocarbon group or a halogenated alkyl group as previously described.
[0029] In the silicone rubber composition (B), component (B2) should be used in such an
amount that the mole ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of
component (B2) to the mole number of alkenyl groups in component (B1) is within the
range of 1.0 to 20.0, preferably 1.0 to 10.0. An amount smaller than the lower limit
of the range will lead to an insufficient curing of the silicone rubber composition
(B). An amount exceeding the upper limit of the range will lower the mechanical properties
and impair the adhesion of the obtained silicone rubber to the cured body produced
from silicone resin composition (A).
[0030] The platinum group metal catalyst used in component (B3) is the same as described
above. An organic peroxide can also be used for cross-linking component (B1) and for
curing the silicone rubber composition (B). The organic peroxide is represented bis(benzoyl)
peroxide, t-butyl perbenzoate, bis(p-methylbenzoyl) peroxide, bis(o-methylbenzoyl)
peroxide, bis(2,4-dimethylbenzoyl) peroxide, dicumyl peroxide, di(t-butyl) peroxide,
2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(t-butylperoxy) hexane, and 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(t-butylperoxy)
hexine.
[0031] Component (B3) should be used in an amount sufficient for curing the silicone rubber
composition (B). If component (B3) is a platinum group metal catalyst, the metallic
part of component (B3) expressed in weight units, should be within the range of 0.1
to 1,000 ppm, based upon the weight of component (B1). If it is used in an amount
of less that 0.1 ppm, curing will be delayed. If the amount of component (B3) exceeds
1000 ppm, this will not improve curing, and is economically unjustifiable. If component
(B3) is an organic peroxide, it should be used in an amount of 0.1 to 10 parts by
weight per 100 parts by weight of component (B1).
[0032] The silicone rubber composition (B) consists of components (B1) to (B3), but it can
additionally contain dry-process silica, wet-process silica, or a similar reinforcement
silica in an amount of 10 to 60 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of component
(B1), and a crepe hardening inhibitor such as an organoalkoxysilane, organochlorosilane,
or organosilazane. Composition (B) may further contain such reinforcement silicas
that have been subjected to a hydrophobic surface treatment with an organic silicon
compound such as diorganosiloxane oligomers capped at both molecular terminals with
silanol groups, an organohydroxysilane, and a hexaorganodisilazane. Use of reinforcement
silicas noticeably improves the adhesive strength of the silicone rubber (B). The
addition of a hydrosilation reaction inhibitor as previously described is also preferred
if the silicone rubber composition (B) is cured by a hydrosilation reaction. Other
additives can be contained provided they do not interfere with the function of (B).
Some examples of such additives are diatomaceous earth, quartz powder, calcium carbonate
powder, carbon black, alumina powder, alumina hydroxide powder, or similar inorganic
fillers; cerium hydroxide, cerium silanolate, cerium fatty acid salt, or similar heat-resistant
agents; stearic acid, zinc stearate, calcium stearate, or similar higher fatty acid;
metal salts of the latter as mold-release agents; and pigments.
[0033] Silicone rubber composition (B) can be prepared by uniformly mixing components (B1)
to (B3). If the composition (B) contains a reinforcement silica, a premixture can
be prepared from component (B1), the reinforcement silica, and the crepe hardening
inhibitor; or from component (B1) and a hydrophobized reinforcement silica. Mixing
can be carried out using a kneader mixer, blade-type mixer, or other mixing apparatus.
Components (B1) can be kneaded to uniform conditions with heating, cooled, and then
combined with components (B2) and (B3) using a blade-type mixer or two-roll mill.
[0034] A cured body obtained from the silicone rubber composition (B) should have hardness
of 30 to 70, preferably 40 to 60, measured with a Type A durometer as specified by
Japanese Industrial Standard K 6253.
[0035] An integrally molded body of a silicone resin and silicone rubber can be produced
by loading the curable silicone resin composition (A) and the silicone rubber composition
(B) into the same mold, and curing both compositions (A) and (B) simultaneously; or
by heating the curable silicone resin composition (A) in a mold to a semi-cured or
cured state, and then loading into the mold and curing the curable silicone rubber
composition (B). In the above process, the mold is heated to 100 to 250 °C, and the
contents of the mold are molded under pressure for a time interval from several seconds
to several minutes.
[0036] The integrally molded product obtained by the above-described method, consists of
a silicone resin of high hardness, and an elastomeric silicone rubber that is firmly
bonded to the silicone resin via adhesion. Hence, the resulting product is suitable
for manufacturing various parts for electric devices, electronic devices, office-automation
devices, vehicles, and precision instruments. There are no limitations with regard
to the shape of the resulting product. It can be in the form of a film, sheet, tape,
block, rod, or tube.
[0037] In another embodiment, the curable silicone resin composition (A) of the invention
may be composed of a polyalkylalkenylsiloxane resin (A1a), a hydrocarbon compound(A4a),
a polyorganosiloxane(A2), and a platinum metal group catalyst (A3). Component (A1a)
should contain in its molecule at least two silicon-bonded alkenyl groups, and no
less than 30 mole percent of total siloxane units of units represented by R
1 SiO
3/2 wherein R
1 is an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms. Component (A4a) contains in its molecule
at least three alkenyl groups, should have a molecular weight not less than 150, and
an index of refraction within the range of 1.45 to 1.56 at 25 °C. The total amount
of components (A1a) and (A4a) used in composition (A) should be 100 parts by weight
in which component (A4a) is used in an amount of 2 to 40 parts by weight, per 100
parts of component (A1a).
[0038] In this embodiment, component (A2) previously described contains at least two silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms in its molecule, and component (A2) is used in such an amount that
the ratio of the mole number of the silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms of component (A2)
to the total mole number of alkenyl groups in components (A1a) and (A4a) is within
the range of 0.1 to 1.0. Component (A3) previously described is used in an amount
sufficient for cross-linking and curing of the components (A1a), (A2), and (A4a).
[0039] Otherwise, component (A1a) has the same characteristics as component (A1) previously
described, and component (A4a) has the same characteristics as component (A4) previously
described. Thus, the previous description of component (A1) and component (A4) applies
in this embodiment, with reference to the necessary components, optional components,
preparation method, curability, curing conditions, and properties of the cured body.
[0040] Thus, R
1 in component (A1a) designates an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms. The following
are specific examples of component (A1a):
(C
3H
7 SiO
3/2)
13 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
2 and
(C
3H
7 SiO
3/2)
8 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
2.
[0041] Component (A4a) is a hydrocarbon that has a refractory index of 1.45 to 1.56 at 25
°C, and a molecular weight higher than 150. Component (A4a) contains at least three
alkenyl groups in its molecule. Component (A4a) is exemplified by 1,2,4-trivinylcyclohexane,
1,3,5-trivinyl cyclohexane, and trivinyl benzene. The cured body obtained from curable
silicone resin composition (A) that contains components (A1a), (A2), and (A3), will
not have a significant hardness, but the hardness is noticeably improved by adding
component (A4a).
Examples
[0042] Practical examples and comparative examples are provided herein below in order to
specifically explain the present invention. The present invention, however, is not
limited to these practical examples.
In all of the following practical examples and comparative examples, the parts are
to be understood as meaning parts by weight. The values of the viscosities were measured
at 25 °C. The values of the weight-average molecular weight were measured by gel-permeation
chromatography (GPC) and recalculated for polystyrene as the standard. The hardness
of the body obtained by curing the curable silicone resin composition (A) was determined
with a Type D durometer in compliance with Japanese Industrial Standard K 7215-1986.
This JIS is a standard test method for determining the durometer hardness of plastics.
The hardness of the body obtained by curing the curable silicone rubber composition
(B) was determined with a Type A durometer in compliance with Japanese Industrial
Standard K 6253-1993 entitled
Testing Method for Hardness. In the examples, Ph is used to designate phenyl, Me designates methyl, and Vi designates
vinyl. The phrase
silicone resin of an integrally molded body means a cured body of the curable silicone resin composition (A), and the phrase
silicone rubber means a cured body of the silicone rubber composition (B).
Practical Example 1
[0043] A curable silicone resin composition (R1) was prepared by combining (i) a mixture
composed of 84 gram of polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin having a weight-average
molecular weight of 1,600, and represented by the average molecular formula (PhSiO
3/2)
7 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and 16 gram of polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin having a weight-average molecular
weight of 408, and represented by the average molecular formula (PhSiO
3/2) (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3; (ii) a mixture composed of 84 gram of polyphenylmethylhydrogensiloxane having a
weight-average molecular weight of 1,100, and represented by the average molecular
formula (PhSiO
3/2)
6 (HM
2SiO
1/2)
4, and 0.17 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol.
[0044] This mixture was further combined with 0.017 gram of a complex of platinum and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane
containing 4 weight percent of metallic platinum. In curable silicone resin composition
(R1), the ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole number
of vinyl groups was 0.79.
[0045] A silicone rubber base was prepared by loading a kneader mixer with five components
and kneading the five components at a reduced pressure for 60 minutes at 175 °C. The
five components were (i) 930 gram of a methylvinylsiloxane-dimethylsiloxane copolymer
gum capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, containing
0.064 weight percent of vinyl groups, and having a degree of polymerization (DP) of
5,000; (ii) 50 gram of a methylvinylsiloxane-dimethylsiloxane copolymer gum capped
at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, containing 1.44 weight percent
of vinyl groups, and having a DP of 5,000; (iii) 30 gram of a polydimethylsiloxane
gum capped at both molecular terminals with dimethylvinylsiloxy groups, having 0.01
weight percent of vinyl groups, and a DP of 5,000; (iv) 70 gram of a dimethylsiloxane
oligomer capped at both molecular terminals with silanol groups, and having a viscosity
of 60 mPa·s; (v) 100 gram of a dry-process silica having a specific surface of 200
m
2/gram, and 540 gram of a wet-process silica having a specific surface of 200 m
2/gram.
[0046] 1,720 gram of this silicone rubber base were cooled and additionally kneaded in a
two-roll mill with 16 gram of a methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer
capped at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, and represented by
the average molecular formula Me
3SiO(MeHSiO
2/2)
3 (Me
2SiO
2/2)
3SiMe
3, 3.5 gram of a polymethylhydrogensiloxane capped at both molecular terminals with
trimethylsiloxy groups, and having a viscosity of 20 mPa·s, and 3.5 gram of 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di-(t-butylperoxy)
hexane. As a result, a silicone rubber composition (E1) was obtained. The ratio of
the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole number of vinyl groups
in composition (E1) was 2.9.
[0047] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R1), and the silicone rubber composition (E1). The contents were press-molded
at 170 °C for 5 minutes at a pressure of 20 MPa, to form a 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide,
and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone resin and silicone rubber.
When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped and stretched in opposite
directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber remained strongly adhered,
and did not show any interfacial separation. The silicone resin had a Type D durometer
hardness of 72, and the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer hardness of 57.
Practical Example 2
[0048] A curable silicone resin composition (R2) was prepared by combining (i) a mixture
composed of 77 gram of polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin having a weight-average
molecular weight of 1,600, and represented by the average molecular formula (PhSiO
3/2)
7 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and 23 gram of polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin having a weight-average molecular
weight of 408, and represented by the average molecular formula (PhSiO
3/2) (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3; (ii) a mixture composed of 75 gram of polyphenylmethylhydrogensiloxane having a
weight-average molecular weight of 1,100, and represented by the average molecular
formula (PhSiO
3/2)
6 (HMe
2SiO
1/2)
4, and 0.21 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol. This mixture was combined with 0.016
gram of a complex of platinum and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane containing
4 weight percent of metallic platinum. The ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded
hydrogen atoms to the mole number of vinyl groups in the curable silicone resin composition
(R2) was 0.79.
[0049] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R2), and the silicone rubber composition (E1) prepared in Practical Example
1. The contents were press-molded at 150 °C for 10 minutes, at a pressure of 5 MPa,
to form a 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide, and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone
resin and the silicone rubber. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped
and stretched in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber remained
strongly adhered, and did not show any interfacial separation. The silicone resin
had a Type D durometer hardness of 71, and the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer
hardness of 57.
Practical Example 3
[0050] 1;720 gram of the silicone rubber base prepared in Practical Example 1 were combined
with 16 gram a methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer capped at both molecular
terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, and having the average molecular formula Me
3SiO(MeHSiO
2/2)
3 (Me
2SiO
2/2)
3SiMe
3, and 3.5 gram of a polymethylhydrogensiloxane capped at both molecular terminals
with trimethylsiloxy groups, and having a viscosity of 20 mPa·s. The components were
mixed in a two-roll mill, combined, and kneaded with 1.5 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol,
and 0.15 gram of a complex of platinum and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane
containing 4 weight percent of metallic platinum. A silicone rubber composition (E2)
was obtained with a ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the
mole number of vinyl groups of 2.9.
[0051] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R1) prepared in Practical Example 1, and the silicone rubber composition
(E2). The contents were press-molded at 150 °C for 5 minutes, at a pressure of 5 MPa,
to form a 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide, and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone
resin and the silicone rubber. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped
and stretched in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber remained
strongly adhered, and did not show any interfacial separation. The silicone resin
had a Type D durometer hardness of 72, and the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer
hardness of 57.
Practical Example 4
[0052] A metal mold was loaded with the curable silicone resin composition (R1) prepared
Practical Example 1, and the composition (R1) was press-molded to a semi-cured state
for 1 minute, at pressure of 5 MPa and at a temperature of 150 °C. The silicone rubber
composition (E1) prepared in Practical Example 1 was then added to the same mold,
and press-molded for 10 minutes, at a pressure of 5 MPa and at a temperature of 150
°C. A 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide, and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone
resin and the silicone rubber was produced. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber
was clamped and stretched in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone
rubber remained strongly adhered, and did not show any interfacial separation. The
silicone resin had a Type D durometer hardness of 71, and the silicone rubber had
a Type A durometer hardness of 57.
Practical Example 5
[0053] A mixture was prepared from 50 gram of a propylmethylvinylpolysiloxane resin of the
average molecular formula (C
3H
7 SiO
3/2)
8 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
2 containing 4.2 weight percent of vinyl groups and a weight-average molecular weight
of 10,000, 2 gram of 1,2,4-trivinylcyclohexane, 26 gram of a polyphenylmethylhydrogensiloxane
having a weight-average molecular weight of 1,100, and represented by the average
molecular formula (PhSiO
3/2)
6 (HMe
2SiO
1/2)
4, and 0.07 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol. The mixture was further combined and
mixed with 0.3 gram of a cerium polysiloxane, and 0.01 gram of a complex of platinum
and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane containing 4 weight percent of metallic
platinum. A silicone resin composition (R3) was obtained having a ratio of the mole
number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole number of vinyl groups of 0.87.
[0054] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R3), and the silicone rubber composition (E1) prepared in Practical Example
1. The contents were press-molded at 150 °C for 5 minutes, at a pressure of 5 MPa,
to form a 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide, and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone
resin and the silicone rubber. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped
and stretched in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber remained
strongly adhered, and did not show any interfacial separation. The silicone resin
had a Type D durometer hardness of 72, and the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer
hardness of 57.
Comparative Example 1
[0055] A mixture was prepared from 84 gram of a polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin represented
by the average molecular formula (Ph SiO
3/2)
7 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 1,600, and 16 gram of a polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane
resin represented by the average molecular formula (Ph SiO
3/2) (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 408. The mixture was combined with
84 gram of a polyphenylmethylhydrogensiloxane represented by the average molecular
formula (PhSiO
3/2)
4 (HMeSiO
1/2)
6, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 1,100, and 0.17 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol,
and then with 0.017 gram of a complex of platinum and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane
containing 4 weight percent of metallic platinum. The silicone resin composition (R4)
obtained had a ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole
number of vinyl groups of 1.7.
[0056] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R4), and silicone rubber composition (E1) prepared in Practical Example
1. The contents were press-molded at 150 °C for 10 minutes, at a pressure of 5 MPa,
to form a 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide, and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone
resin and the silicone rubber. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped
and stretched in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber were
separated over the interface. The silicone resin had a Type D durometer hardness of
72, and the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer hardness of 57.
Comparative Example 2
[0057] A mixture was prepared from 77 gram of a polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane resin represented
by the average molecular formula (Ph SiO
3/2)
7 (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 1,600, and 23 gram of a polyphenylmethylvinylsiloxane
resin represented by the average molecular formula (Ph SiO
3/2) (ViMe
2SiO
1/2)
3, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 408. The mixture was combined and
mixed with 46 gram of a polyphenylmethylhydrogensiloxane represented by the average
molecular formula Me
3SiO (Me
2SiO
2/2)
4 (MeHSiO
2/2)
8 (Ph
2 SiO
2/2)
4 SiMe
3, and having a weight-average molecular weight of 1,300, and 0.17 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol,
and then with 0.017 gram of a complex of platinum and 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane
containing 4 weight percent of metallic platinum. The silicone resin composition (R5)
obtained had a ratio of the mole number of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole
number of vinyl groups of 0.58.
[0058] 1,720 gram of the silicone rubber base prepared in Practical Example 1, were kneaded
in a two-roll mill, with 4 gram of a methylhydrogensiloxane·dimethylsiloxane copolymer
capped at both molecular terminals with trimethylsiloxy groups, and represented by
the average molecular formula Me
3SiO(MeHSiO
2/2)
3 (Me
2SiO
2/2)
3SiMe
3, 1.5 gram of 1-ethynyl-1-cyclohexanol, and 0.15 gram of a complex of platinum and
1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane containing 4 weight percent of metallic
platinum. The silicone rubber composition (E3) obtained had a ratio of the mole number
of silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms to the mole number of vinyl groups of 0.44.
[0059] A metal mold was loaded with equal half-quantities of the curable silicone resin
composition (R5), and the composition was press-molded to a semi-cured state for 1
minute, at a pressure of 5 MPa, and at a temperature of 150 °C. The silicone rubber
composition (E3) was then added to the same mold, and press-molded for 10 minutes
at a pressure of 5 MPa, and at a temperature of 150 °C. A 60 mm-long, 40 mm-wide,
and 8 mm-thick, integrally molded body of the silicone resin and the silicone rubber
was produced. When the silicone resin and silicone rubber was clamped and stretched
in opposite directions, the silicone resin and the silicone rubber were separated
over the interface. The silicone resin had a Type D durometer hardness of 48, and
the silicone rubber had a Type A durometer hardness of 50.
[0060] Other variations may be made in compounds, compositions, and methods described herein
without departing from the essential features of the invention. The embodiments of
the invention specifically illustrated herein are exemplary only and not intended
as limitations on their scope except as defined in the appended claims.